Consular Corps Established for Sacramento

A Sacramento Consular Corps has been established by California State University, Sacramento and the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. Representatives of five countries met late last month to draft a document establishing the corps and its responsibilities. The Consular Corps will promote international relations and economic development.

According to the organizing documents, members of the Consular Corps are those consular representatives of foreign governments assigned responsibility for the Sacramento region. The representatives are accredited by the country they represent and are recognized by the U.S. government. The Consular Corps will establish and keep an official list of all individuals who meet the criteria, who will become voting members of the corps.

The most senior consul general will head the group and will preside at the meetings.

In announcing the formation of the new corps, Gerth said, "The corps will enhance foreign affairs and diplomacy in the region. It will foster international relationships and promote international economic development and cultural and educational partnerships. We live in a global society and this is a part of recognizing and working within that society. Consulates are a primary arm of governments in increasing business and trade as well as promoting investment and tourism opportunities."

Hammer said, "Establishment of a formal consular corps in Sacramento is one more important step in our region's efforts to become a player in the international arena. Through our existing and new consular representatives, business will have greater access to the international market place thus promoting economic development and creating jobs in our region."

The Northern California World Trade Center is serving as the administrative quarters of the Sacramento Consular Corps.